Though the storylines in A Cove of Witches begin in 1719, 1780, and 2026, the characters’ lives are connected to their family’s stories that stretch into each of their pasts. How was your understanding of the characters influenced by their family histories? How has your understanding of yourself been influenced by your own family history?

In the novel, there are several intergenerational relationships. Which was your favourite and why? What do you think we learn from intergenerational relationships that we don’t typically learn within our own generation, if anything?

The characters in the novel frequently hedge the truth for their own gain and to protect those they love. What did you think of the characters’ decisions to mislead others? 

Simone’s visions send her on an adventure with Maeve to learn about the phantom ship. If you were Simone, would you have continued with Maeve accompanying you, or not? Why? 

Who did you think was knocking on the door of Sébastienne’s cottage? Why? What might have happened if someone else had been on her doorstep? If you were Sébastienne, would you have agreed to the journey? 

What did you think of Yvonne’s decision to befriend Ange? If you were Yvonne, would you have boarded the ship in Rochefort?

As the characters travelled to different locations in different timelines, how did you think they might intersect geographically? 

What did you think of the various artefacts the characters encountered? How did they drive the narrative forward? Do you have a family artefact that is important to you? 

If you could choose one of the abilities in the novel, which would you choose, and why?

What hints did you realize were heading toward the twists at the ending? Were you surprised by them, or did you suspect where the story was going? 

If you’ve read A Sea of Spectres, how did that novel affect your reading of A Cove of Witches? Which would you recommend reading first?